parks

Rare Maplewood grasslands one step closer to protection

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

February 3, 2022

As covered in several news outlets, Ramsey County is stepping back from its plans to develop a rare grassland bird haven. We're celebrating this win and advocating for the next logical step: permanent habitat protection. Ramsey County residents — please send a note to the county to express support for this special refuge. >>

What can cities do to guide development and protect open space?

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

December 15, 2021

When we work with community members involved in local development and habitat protection issues, we often hear similar questions: "What can my city leaders do about this issue?" "Does anyone have the power to change this project?" Here's a summary of how cities can shape development and protect open space. >>

Mississippi Dunes: Cottage Grove's great missed opportunity

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

December 15, 2021

The Cottage Grove City Council recently approved a plan for the former Mississippi Dunes golf course. While the plan includes a modest riverfront park, many residents hoped for more. >>

Cottage Grove seeks community feedback about Mississippi Dunes plan

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

October 6, 2021

Last week, 50 community members gathered to discuss opportunities to influence decision-making about the former Mississippi Dunes golf course in Cottage Grove. Here are several ways to speak up in the coming weeks. >>

What's still possible for Mississippi Dunes?

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

August 30, 2021

Cottage Grove residents have been busy advocating for a new public park at the former Mississippi Dunes golf course. We're concerned that without strong city leadership, the site will be largely developed into housing without sufficient community input. Join us on September 28 to get involved. >>

Star Tribune: 'Habitat or housing?' ... We say both

update

July 19, 2021

Ramsey County is grappling with a big question: Is responding to both our climate crisis and affordable housing crisis a zero-sum game? How can we create the housing the Twin Cities needs, while also preserving the homes of other species whose populations are collapsing? >>

Annual park rankings highlight racial and economic disparities

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

June 7, 2021

St. Paul and Minneapolis are known to have some of the country's best urban park systems. But how well do they deliver equitable park access to all residents? >>